Imoke vows to reposition Cross River

By John Ighodaro
CALABARâ€”Governor Liyel Imoke of Cross River State has reiterated his commitment to repositioning the state as a leader in service delivery among the comity of states by 2011.

He spoke shortly after swearing in Mr. Venatius Ikem as the Special Adviser, Inter-governmental Relations and Liason, Abuja, in Calabar,

Imoke charged members of his cabinet to redouble efforts in ensuring that Cross River became a model, insisting that the current rating of the state by the Federal Government must be surpassed for it to come in the first three position.

The governor, who argued that the growth and success of the state must be seen as a collective one by ensuring that set targets in service delivery impact positively on the lives of the people were met, noted â€œwe want to get to the top despite our financial challenges, so you must rededicate yourselves and be more committed in serviceâ€.

Imoke described Mr. Ikem as an old hand in the business of service to humanity and expressed the hope that he would bring his wealth of experience to bear in his new office.

Earlier, the Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Fidelis Ugbo, said the event was in line with the philosophy of the administration which, since its inception, postulated that where necessary, there shall be changes.

He added that the selection of Mr. Venatius Ikem was carefully chosen and, will add value to the service of the state.

In his response, Special Adviser, Inter-Governmental Relations and Liaison, Mr. Venatius Ikem, promised to justify the confidence reposed on him by ensuring that he discharges his duties diligently.